The 14th Beijing International Film Festival concluded on April 26, after nine days of showcasing a variety of movies to fans. Alongside the festival, the Beijing National Film Exhibition provided a platform for the public to delve into the history, culture, and daily life of the Chinese nation. Established in 2010, the Beijing Ethnic Film Exhibition has been running for 15 years, supporting the development of ethnic-themed films.
In a recent interview with some of the key creative minds behind the films featured in the exhibition, “China News” gained insights into their creative concepts and artistic pursuits. The Film Talk Community 2024 Beijing National Film Exhibition officially kicked off at the China Film Museum on April 19, with various activities focusing on the theme of building a strong sense of the Chinese nation’s community.
Ethnic-themed films have been an integral part of Chinese cinema since the founding of New China, with notable movies like “The Victory of the People of Inner Mongolia” released in 1950 marking significant milestones. Over the years, ethnic-themed films have evolved in terms of artistic expression and impact, garnering recognition at major film festivals both domestically and internationally.
As the landscape of filmmaking continues to evolve, ethnic-themed films are actively exploring new production models and narrative techniques to engage modern audiences. With a focus on balancing historical accuracy and artistic creativity, filmmakers are striving to bring stories to life in a compelling and relatable manner.
The Beijing National Film Exhibition serves as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of China, showcasing the diversity and unity of the nation through the lens of cinema. Through a dialogic “community narrative,” filmmakers are not only preserving national culture but also reflecting on its evolution over the past 75 years.
Director Han Wanfeng, who presented his latest film “The Lineman on Horseback” at the festival, emphasized the importance of every film in not only preserving national culture but also in critically examining it. As the ethnic-themed film creation team continues to evolve, it is clear that these films play a crucial role in capturing the nuances and intricacies of Chinese culture.
Through a blend of tradition and modernity, ethnicity-themed films offer a glimpse into the past, present, and future of China, encapsulating the essence of a nation rich in history and culture.